As featured in the Derby Telegraph on Monday 11th May 2026, Derby College Group recently hosted the annual King’s Award for Voluntary Service event, bringing together over 120 representatives from charities and community groups to celebrate Derbyshire’s thriving voluntary sector.
The Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Mrs Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, welcomed guests including the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, the Chair of Derbyshire County Council, the Mayor of the City of Derby and the Dean of Derby, alongside partners Foundation Derbyshire and Community Action Derby.
Held in a year that would have marked Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday, the event carried added significance, honouring the award the Queen originally established as the highest recognition for local voluntary groups in the UK — the equivalent of an MBE for organisations.
Attendees heard inspiring stories from 2025 winners Buxton Town Team, Me and Dee, and Mackworth Estate Community Association, showcasing the depth and diversity of voluntary work across the county. Led by David Coleman DL, Derbyshire’s KAVS Lead, the event reinforced the message that organisations of all sizes should consider applying.
Nominations for the 2026 awards are open now, with guidance available to help groups submit the strongest possible application.
The full article is available in the Derby Telegraph (Monday 11th May 2026), and further information can be found at www.kavs.dcms.gov.uk.
